The Muskogee tribes, Creeks and northern Seminoles, proclaimed the establishment of a country called the Muskogee Free State in 1792. The country included land from southwest Georgia, Southeast Alabama and northern Florida. Initially they were recognized by Great Britian and given military support and shipping rights. The leader of the country was William A Bowles, an Englishman who through marriage to a Creek princess gained influence among the Creeks. Unforyunately Bowles was captured by the Spanish in 1799 and remained in exile until 1799 when he returned home. He absence during this crucial period of growth for the country loosened his control/influence among the Creek chiefs.

Still in 1800, the Muskogee Free State declared war on Spain which lasted until 1802. The Muskogee navy which consisted of 3 pirate ships wrecked havoc among Spanish shipping along the Florida coast. The major campaign was the attack on the Spanish Fort at San Marcos. The Muskogee Army consisted of Seminoles, Free Blacks, white Pirates and even some Spanish deserters. The Spanish with elements of the Louisiana Regiment, white and Free Black militia units defended the city. The key to San Marcos's defence turned out to be 2 river galleys anchored in the harbor which pounded any assaulting force with heavy cannon. After several near successes, the attackers broke and retreated. This ended the war and later in 1809 when the British joined an alliance with the Spanish, the British withdrew their support from the Muskogee Free State.

This era of history provides numerous scenarios for skirmish gaming with a colorful mix of castings. A Muskogee Navy would add a distinctive flavor to any Pirate ship game. Also the assault on San Marcos would provide a great skirmish scenario for multi-players or as a convention event.

More Strange American Conflicts

Strange American Conflicts: Introduction
Strange American Conflicts: Bacon's Rebellion
Strange American Conflicts: Shay's Rebellion
Strange American Conflicts: Whiskey Rebellion
Strange American Conflicts: Oconee War
Strange American Conflicts: The Walton War
Strange American Conflicts: The Toledo War
Strange American Conflicts: Helderberg War
Strange American Conflicts: Muskogee Free State War
Strange American Conflicts: Patriot War
Strange American Conflicts: Jackson's Florida Expeditions
Strange American Conflicts: Wakarusa War